Engine/Transmission (1998.5 - 2002) Rear Axle Hub Nut Size

[erobb]

I have a 98. 5, 2500, 24V, 5sp, Reg Cab 4x4.

The last few days the rear brakes have been 'grabbing', I have 98,000 mi on the truck so I figure it's the rear axle seals.

Can someone tell me what size socket I must have to get the hubs off? I checked the local parts house, they have to order the proper size but they don't have any application guide, you have to know the size you need. I could rip an axle out and try to measure the thing somehow, but I'd really rather not. Besides I'd rather find out for sure the proper size rather than trying to measure and ending up ordering the wrong one. If someone has a 'Lisle' or 'OTC' part number that would be super cool. By the way I have the Dana 80 rearend.



Thanks

 

[Joseph Donnelly]

KD makes a special socket in 2-9/16". You can't use a regular 6- or 12-point socket.

 

[Steve Campbell]

Most wheel seals I have had fail...

have been from the bearing being too loose. After you take the axle out, before loosening the nut, check the "play" in the bearings just for fun!!!

 

[PCrable]

Erobb,

there's a lot of previous posts on the rear axle seal issue. Here's one that a lot of people gave me advise on. Part way through the posts is the info on the Dana Axle nut. I have the part number listed from NAPA for the 2 9/16 rounded hex socket.



https://www.turbodieselregister.com/forums/showthread.php?s=&threadid=49291



The other big item of discussion was if you should replace your rear brake pads if they've been soaked in oil... I did.



--Phil